Paper Straw Sizes Guide: Which Size for Which Drink

Paper straws come in different diameters and lengths, and picking the right one makes a real difference to the drinking experience - a straw that’s too narrow is frustrating for a thick shake, while an oversized straw is wasteful for water. This simple guide covers the three standard sizes, what each is best for, and the options that matter when you order.

Paper straw sizes at a glance

6mm - the everyday standard

The 6mm straw is the all-rounder and the most common size for F&B. At 6 × 197mm it suits water, soft drinks, iced coffee, tea and cocktails - most drinks on a typical menu. It’s the default choice if you only want to stock one size, and it comes in white or black.

8mm - for juices & thicker drinks

At 8 × 210mm, the 8mm straw has a wider bore for drinks with more body - fresh juices, smoothies and blended iced coffee - where a 6mm straw would feel too thin.

12mm - the bubble tea jumbo

The 12mm jumbo (12 × 210mm) is purpose-built for bubble tea and boba: the wide bore lets tapioca pearls through, and it’s sturdy enough for thick milk teas and shakes. If you serve boba, this is the size you need. (See our bubble tea straws page.)

Wrapped vs non-wrapped

Every size comes two ways:

• Wrapped - each straw is individually paper-wrapped. More hygienic, looks premium, and preferred (or required) in many dine-in and takeaway settings.
• Non-wrapped - lower cost and ideal for self-serve dispensers in high-volume outlets.

Flat end vs sharp end

The 8mm and 12mm straws are available with a flat end (standard) or a sharp/pointed end. The sharp end is designed to pierce sealed cups - handy for sealed takeaway bubble tea - while the flat end suits open cups.

Length & custom sizes

Standard lengths run from around 197mm to 210mm, which fit most cups. Custom sizes are possible too - including bendable paper straws, like the ones Nestlé Malaysia uses on their Milo packet drinks - if you have a specific requirement.

How to choose for your menu

Match the size to what you serve, and order a mix if your menu is varied:

• Mostly water, coffee & soft drinks - 6mm
• Juices, smoothies & iced blends - 8mm
• Bubble tea, boba & thick shakes - 12mm

Not sure what you need? Request a sample pack and test them with your own drinks before you order in bulk.